Argument Essay

### Section: Analyze an Argument Essay Estimated study time: 45 minutes > Format-era notice (September 2023+): In the shortened GRE General Test (effective September 22, 2023), the Analyze an Argument task has been eliminated from the standard test. The standard test now includes only the Analyze an Issue task (30 minutes, 1 prompt). The Argument task may still appear if a specific graduate program has requested it; confirm with ETS before your test date. This lesson remains relevant for programs that require the Argument essay and for test-takers whose programs opt in. [Source: ETS GRE test-structure page, fetched 2026-06-29] Content: The Analyze an Argument task presents a short passage containing someone else's argument and asks you to critique it — not to agree or disagree with the conclusion, but to evaluate the logical quality of the reasoning. The instruction will specify what to critique: assumptions, evidence quality, questions that would strengthen or weaken the argument, or alternative explanations. Always respond to the specific instruction — answering the wrong question is a common mistake. The fundamental difference from the Issue essay: in the Argument essay, you are NOT taking a position on the underlying topic. If the prompt argues that "Northwood Mall should expand its food court to increase foot traffic," you should not argue whether food courts are good ideas. You must analyze the logical flaws, unsupported assumptions, and missing evidence in the given argument. Your job is to be a ruthless logical critic. Argument essays succeed by identifying specific logical flaws. The most common flaws on GRE prompts include:…